Source TOI
Mumbai witnessed a major disruption in its suburban railway network after a construction crane collapsed onto the overhead electric (OHE) lines, injuring at least ten people and halting train services on a busy route, officials said on Friday.
The incident occurred during ongoing infrastructure work near a railway track in the city. According to preliminary reports, the crane lost balance and fell directly onto the OHE system, damaging critical electrical equipment and affecting multiple train operations during peak hours.
Emergency services rushed to the spot soon after the accident. Injured individuals, including workers and commuters present nearby, were immediately taken to nearby hospitals. Authorities confirmed that most injuries were non-life-threatening, though a few victims were reported to be in serious condition and are under close medical supervision.
Railway officials stated that the collapse caused significant damage to overhead wires, forcing the suspension of services on the affected line. Several local trains were delayed, diverted, or cancelled, leading to heavy inconvenience for thousands of daily commuters in Mumbai.
“We are working on a war footing to restore normal services,” a senior railway अधिकारी said, adding that technical teams have been deployed to repair the damaged OHE infrastructure. Restoration work is expected to continue through the night to ensure early resumption of operations.
The exact cause of the crane collapse is still under investigation. Initial suspicions point toward possible mechanical failure or negligence in handling the equipment. Authorities have ordered a detailed inquiry to determine accountability and prevent such incidents in the future.
Meanwhile, safety concerns have once again come into focus, especially regarding construction activities near active railway lines. Commuter groups and local residents have demanded stricter safety protocols and monitoring to avoid similar accidents.
The Mumbai suburban railway network, often referred to as the lifeline of the city, carries millions of passengers daily. Any disruption, even temporary, has a cascading impact on the city’s routine life and economy.
Officials have assured that all necessary measures are being taken to ensure passenger safety and restore services at the earliest.
